In a move set to advance safety and sustainability in South Africa’s mining and minerals sector, align efforts and boost collaboration with other stakeholders in the mining RDI ecosystem, the Mandela Mining Precinct (MMP) has signed Memorandums of Understanding with MHSC, HSRC, and, in the final stages, with Coaltech.
These agreements cement a collaborative commitment to driving innovation and best practices in the industry, ensuring that emerging mining technologies under investigation, research, or development are fully compliant with health and safety regulations, while also considering the effects, impacts, and challenges on people.
As of the 19th of May 2025, 21 families in South Africa had lost a loved one to mining-related deaths. “A fatality is a statistic; a death is a human being. Ladies, gentlemen, and all, the reason that the MHSC and the MMP are formally starting this journey of collaboration today is because people are the mining industry,” said MMP Executive Director Julie Courtnage at the MMP/MHSC signing ceremony.
The MMP was established to facilitate and coordinate the implementation of the South African Minerals Extraction Research, Development & Innovation model. The main task of the Mine Health and Safety Council is to advise the Minister of Mineral Resources on occupational health, safety legislation, and research outcomes focused on improving and promoting occupational health and safety in South African mines.
“These MoUs signify determination, good grace and vigour. It is that same determination and vigour that will drive them to their logical outcome; safer work for the people who are mining,” she says.
